Vincent Van Gogh's Starry Night is one of the most recognizable pieces of art around the world, which is why we were so captivated to see this unique replica of the iconic swirly evening sky. Instead of using oil on canvas, microbiologist Melanie Sullivan reproduction was made in a petri dish with bacteria.

Now, you may be thinking that Sullivan has a little bit too much time on her hands, but she actually created this infectious piece for a contest—the American Society for Microbiology's first Agar Art contest to be exact.

courtesy of American Society for Microbiology

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According to the Huffington Post, "the multitalented scientists used proteins, yeast and good ol' fashioned bacteria to create visions of flowers, skeletons, butterflies—even a map of New York City."

And with such creative competitors, Sullivan unfortunately didn't get to take home first place. Regardless, we have a hunch Van Gogh would be proud.

As for those of you who are curious about the winners, here are the top three contestants.

First place went to Mehmet Berkmen and Maria Penil, "Neurons."

courtesy of American Society of Microbiology

The second place title was awarded to this crowdsourced, "NYC Biome Map."

courtesy of American Society of Microbiology

And third place went to Maria Eugenia Inda, "Harvest Season." (If you look closely, there's a house in there!)

courtesy of American Society of Microbiology

You can take a look at the rest of the incredible works of bacteria art here.